Eurovision Song Contest: A Celebration of Diversity and Fashion Extravaganza

MILAN — If you believe that Fire Saga made for the most memorable Eurovision Song Contest entry ever, think again. Despite its eccentricity, the fictional artistic duo played by Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams in the Netflix musical comedy about the European competition could easily be overshadowed by many of the real-life contestants that have appeared on stage over the last 65 years. Since its launch in 1956, the annual music event has continued to mushroom in terms of the number of contestants, the set-up, its musical offerings — and especially its fashions, with contestants opting for flashy and quite often questionable outfits to make an impression on the international audience. It’s all part of the very essence of the show: a loud, joyous event intended to serve up carefree entertainment and celebrate the differences within the European community. But behind the razzmatazz the Eurovision Song Contest, or ESC, also means serious business. In addition to broadcasting contracts, media coverage as well as an economic and promotional boost for the host cities, the show has launched major international careers, including the likes of ABBA and Céline Dion, who won the competition in 1974 and 1988, respectively. Even for non-winners, the event can be fruitful, providing artists

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